Dealing With Hazards Toolbox Talk
In this toolbox talk, learn how to identify hazards on a construction site and how to control them. Plus, learn the most common hazards of a construction site and how to avoid them.
Hazard Identification, Recognition & Control Safety Talk
Because of the nature of the job, construction work is much more dangerous than almost any other line of work possible—you are constantly dealing with hazards such as heavy machinery or potentially dangerous chemicals. These hazards add up, and if not handled properly, can cause bodily harm to you and the people around you. In this toolbox talk, we will discuss how you can recognize and control the safety hazards at your job site, as well as some common construction site hazards to look out for.
How To Recognize & Control Hazards Properly
One of the worst things a supervisor or site manager can do is task employees with working around a hazard rather than addressing it properly. Unfortunately, this happens far too often in the construction industry. These issues should be addressed immediately, not thrown on the back burner.
Here are some examples of safety hazards and adequate controls:
The point is, you shouldn’t just "deal" with hazards. You should make a concerted effort to completely get rid of hazards altogether. Simply relying on our co-workers to avoid the hazards themselves is a recipe for disaster.
Common Construction Site Hazards
As we mentioned above, working constriction is dangerous by nature. Many workplace hazards can be dealt with before they cause issues, but some hazards simply come with the job. It’s up to both the employee and the company to successfully recognize and control these hazards through training and attentiveness. Some of the most common hazards of a construction site include:
Heights
According to recent research, over a quarter of worker fatalities were from a heights-related fall, making working from heights the most common cause of fatal injuries to workers. If you are a supervisor, you need to be sure that all of your employees who work at height are thoroughly trained and experienced to do the job. You also need to be sure the proper equipment and fall protection measures are involved. Here are some of the ways you can avoid a heights-related accident:
Moving Objects
Another unavoidable risk is moving machinery. It's unavoidable in the sense that this machinery will always be on the worksite. Accidents caused by moving machinery can be avoided if proper precautions are taken. Heavy equipment such as supply vehicles, lifting equipment, and diggers can all pose a threat. Here are some of the ways you can deal with that threat:
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slip, trips, and falls are a danger no matter where you work. For example, a wet floor at an office job caused by a recent mopping can lead to slippage. Climbing the stairs can lead to falls. These risks become more apparent when working in construction. Here are some common causes of slips and trips and how you can avoid them:
Noise
Unfortunately, many construction workers are unaware of the long-term damage noise can cause until it’s too late. Hearing protection PPE is required on the worksite to prevent noise induced hearing loss. When you are working with heavy machinery and heavy materials, loud noises are bound to happen. Without proper equipment, these loud noises can take a toll over time, leading to hearing loss or tinnitus. Make sure your ears are always protected when you’re on the job.
Hazard Recognition Starts With You
Working in construction is dangerous. You don’t need us to tell you that. Unfortunately, so many of these workplace injuries can be avoided with proper safety protocols. Recognizing the dangers of construction work and taking steps to mitigate that danger is required.
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